This lesson plan centers on TAMI’s interactive web exhibit,“Women on the Move: Texas and the Fight for Women’s Rights” which combines local television coverage with newsreels, government films, commercials and home movies to examine the historical impact of the National Women’s Conference, the ongoing debate it provoked, and the opposition movement the conference inspired. Studying the history of the National Women’s Conference can support student understanding of the development of political platforms, the process of civic debate, and the mechanisms by which interests groups attempt to change laws and regulations.

Using “Women on the Move: Texas and the Fight for Women’s Rights” as an organizing framework, middle grade and high school students of Texas history and United States government will demonstrate an understanding of individual rights, political participation, and the impact that individuals and interests groups can have on shaping public policy.